Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef receives Interpol’s Medal of Highest Order

LYON: Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Saud Al-Sabah was awarded the Interpol Medal of the Highest Order on Friday, recognizing Kuwait’s long-standing support and active role in the global policing organization. The medal was presented by Interpol Secretary General, Major General Dr Ahmed Al-Raisi, during a meeting in Lyon that focused on cooperation in security and international crime prevention. Kuwait’s Ambassador to France Abdullah Al-Shahin also attended the meeting.

The medal represents the highest level of distinction granted by Interpol to international leaders in acknowledgment of their outstanding role in strengthening global security cooperation, combating organized and transnational crime, terrorism and cyber threats. Saudi Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz and President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau Umaro Sissoco Embaló received the medal earlier this year.

Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef Saud Al-Sabah meets with Major General Dr Ahmed Al-Raisi and officials during his visit to the Interpol’s Secretariat General.

During his visit to the Interpol, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef highlighted Kuwait’s commitment to international security efforts since joining the organization in 1965. “Kuwait is present and active in various forums because we believe that international cooperation in security is the cornerstone of protecting communities from terrorism and organized crime,” he said.

He underscored Kuwait’s use of Interpol’s advanced databases at land, sea and air entry points, which have strengthened border security and enabled early detection of stolen and internationally wanted documents. He also noted Kuwait’s contribution through seconding officers to Interpol’s General Secretariat in Lyon and Innovation Center in Singapore, as well as participation in pilot projects such as the Artificial Intelligence initiative and the Silver Notice program for asset recovery.

The meeting reviewed best practices in combating cybercrime and international smuggling, with both sides stressing the importance of continuous coordination and information sharing to rapidly respond to security threats and safeguard regional and international interests. — Agencies